The FIA have announced an official penalty verdict concerning Ferrari star Lewis Hamilton after an investigation at the Spanish Grand Prix.

The seven-time champion took to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on Saturday at a track where the 40-year-old has claimed victory six times across his illustrious career.

During his first qualifying for the Spanish GP since making the switch to Ferrari this season Hamilton managed to outqualify team-mate Charles Leclerc, lining up P5 for Sunday’s race.

Following the relatively successful session for the champion, F1’s governing body announced that Hamilton was one of three drivers who had allegedly exceeded the 1:25.0 time limit between the Safety Car lines during qualifying, with an investigation launched.

The stewards investigated Hamilton along with Esteban Ocon and Lance Stroll over an alleged breach of Article 33.4 of the FIA Formula One sporting regulations and Article 12.2.1 i) of the FIA International sporting code.

Hamilton’s high hopes for final Barcelona Spanish GP

The F1 legend’s performance on Saturday marks only the second occasion where he has out-qualified his Monegasque team-mate in their first nine races as a driver duo.

Aside from a race win in the Chinese GP sprint, Hamilton has been bested by Leclerc frequently this season, compounding his struggles adjusting to the new machinery and environment.